Home Care

Once you and your doctor find the cause, you will want to know how to treat your nausea or vomiting. You may need to take medicine, change your diet, or try other things to make you feel better.

It is very important to keep enough fluids in your body. Try drinking frequent, small amounts of clear liquids.

If you have morning sickness during pregnancy, ask your doctor about possible treatments.

The following may help treat motion sickness:

Lying down.

Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine).

Using scopolamine prescription skin patches (such as Transderm Scop). These are helpful for extended trips, such as an ocean voyage. Use the patch as your doctor instructs. Scopolamine is for adults only. It should NOT be given to children.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call 911 or go to an emergency room if:

You think vomiting is from poisoning.

You notice blood or dark, coffee-colored material in the vomit.

Call a health care provider right away or seek medical care if you or another person has:

Been vomiting for longer than 24 hours

Been unable to keep any fluids down for 12 hours or more

Headache or stiff neck

Not urinated for 8 or more hours

Severe stomach or belly pain

Vomited three or more times in 1 day

Signs of dehydration include:

Crying without tears

Dry mouth

Increased thirst

Eyes that appear sunken

Skin changes -- for example, if you touch or squeeze the skin, it doesn't bounce back the way it usually does

Urinating less often or having dark yellow urine

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam, and will look for signs of dehydration.